Lisa Druxman, M.A., founder of Stroller Strides, is an expert in the field of fitness, and is dedicated to helping women, particularly in pre and postnatal fitness.
our pregnancy days may be behind you, but that extra weight is still lingering. For many women, it’s not so easy shedding those pregnancy pounds. Even though the first few months of motherhood can be overwhelming, it’s important to regenerate your body.
Here’s how…
1. Take baby steps. Each day, add just a bit more activity into your routine. Listen to your body for signs that you may be doing too much.
2. Do abdominal compressions. When nursing, doing dishes, or driving the car, engages your abs. Contract your abs and think about narrowing your waistline without holding your breath. Play with tempo, intensity, and duration. Soon, you'll regain control over lost abdominal strength.
3. Pretty posture. Pregnancy can wreak havoc on your posture. Throughout the day, make sure that your body is in alignment. Slide your head back, as it is probably jutting forward. Roll your shoulders back, engage your abs and glutes. Pregnancy and motherhood pull your body forward, so you need to do exercises to bring things back into place.
4. Fuel your body. Imagine that you are still pregnant and that the food you eat is fueling your baby. Eat foods that are rich in nutrients and whole in nature. Try to avoid processed and sugary foods. Get a vegetable in at every meal if you can!
5. HYDRATE. Water is one of the most important things for regenerating and re-energizing your body. It will keep up your energy and your metabolism. Keep drinking!
Make sure to have some "mom-me" time. Moms often neglect their own health when tending to a new baby. Take time to exercise even if just a few minutes, choose nutritious foods, and B-R-E-A-T-H-E. It's never too early to start being a healthy role model for your child.
And just remember: It took you 9 months to put the weight on, so give yourself that much time to take it off.
About The AuthorLisa Druxman, M.A. is a nationally recognized speaker and author, and is considered an expert in the field of fitness, particularly pre and postnatal fitness. She earned her Master’s degree at San Diego State University in psychology with an emphasis in exercise adherence and weight control.
As founder of Stroller Strides, she relishes its mission statement, “Helping moms make strides in fitness, motherhood and life.” She lives in San Diego with her husband, young son and newborn daughter.
Lisa is a member of The Cradle’s Advisory Board.
